Jackson, MI – Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in one backyard flock from Jackson County and two commercial poultry facilities in Ottawa County.
These latest detections mark the first case of HPAI in Jackson County since the beginning of the outbreak in 2022, and the fourth case in Ottawa County flocks in recent weeks.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low. Also, no birds or bird products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs.
The affected premises are currently under quarantine, and the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread.
MDARD is continuing to work diligently with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of sick domestic animals to best mitigate the spread of HPAI and provide outreach.
More information on avian influenza and how to protect flocks through preventative measures can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website.
Tune into our local and state newscasts, anytime day or night, for this story and more.
Sign up for WLEN’s weekday newsletter: 
Follow WLEN on social media: 
#wlenradio #wlennews #lenaweenews